Top South Carolina Whale Watching

Enjoy an immersive way to discover Hilton Head Island's aquatic scenery—and give yourself the best chance of spotting local marine life, including dolphins—on this guided boat tour. Choose a departure time that works best for you, greet your United States Coast Guard-licensed captain, and hop aboard. Learn more about the island's ecosystem along the way, and look out for wildlife as you head into nature.

Enjoy sunset views and scan the water for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins on this dolphin-watching cruise off the coast of South Carolina. The frequency of dolphin sightings makes this cruise ideal for those hoping to catch photos of the majestic sea creatures. Plus, throughout the cruise, you can learn about dolphins and your surroundings from an on-board naturalist.

Increase your odds of seeing dolphins in the wild on this dolphin watching cruise from Hilton Head. Sail out from easy-to-find Palmetto Bay Marina at your selected departure time: admire views of the shore, look for wildlife, and learn about the local ecosystem. Plus, take a quick stop to look for shells, starfish, and sand dollars at “Disappearing Island,” a strip of land only accessible at low tide.

On this dolphin watching cruise from Hilton Head, you have the chance to see wildlife, check out local landmarks, and admire the coastline as you cruise out on the Calibogue Sound and Atlantic Ocean. Your guide narrates the entire trip as you sail past Bull Island, the Haig Point Lighthouse, and more, all while looking out for dolphins, egrets, herons, and other animals in the wild.

Experience Hilton Head’s wildlife-rich Broad Creek Estuary on this kayaking tour designed for all ages and experience levels—no need for prior experience or your own equipment. Glide through calm salt-marsh waters and keep an eye out for wild bottlenose dolphins, as well as manatees, sea turtles, otters, and shorebirds. Paddle past waterfront homes and learn about the local history and ecology from your guide.

Explore the salt marsh and take in views of the incredible Lowcountry sunset! On this 90-minute tour, learn about the salt marsh and try to spot local dolphins! Guests are welcome to bring snacks and beverages on board. Don't forget to bring your camera for photos of the most incredible view of the lowcountry sunset. This tour is one-of-a-kind and memorable for all ages!

Join us for a family-friendly adventure to the pristine Capers Island Preserve aboard our shaded excursion vessel featuring a restroom and beaching ramp. Crab the old-fashioned way using hand lines and nets, while your naturalist guide pulls crab traps to teach you about blue and stone crabs’ life cycles. Enjoy a scenic eco-tour with chances to spot dolphins and coastal wildlife. Once on the beach, swim, explore, or try your hand at catching crabs—don’t worry, we catch and release! The highlight? A delicious crab boil with fresh, locally caught steamed crabs served with melted butter, Old Bay, and ice-cold watermelon. Perfect for all ages—fun, educational, and delicious!

Travel back to Colonial times aboard a horse-drawn carriage and discover more than 300 years of history on this guided, 1-hour tour of Charleston. See the many mansions, churches and gardens of yesteryear on this narrated tour around historic Charleston. Enjoy the romantic clip-clop sound as this educational adventure winds through the streets and learn about this ‘Holy City’ and its rich history and role in Civil War times.

Go sailing at sunset in Hilton Head Island with this private dolphin-watching tour. Climb aboard a sailboat and cruise out into Port Royal Sound during this private tour. Keep an eye out for wildlife including dolphins, manatees, sting rays, and more. Learn about sailing if you choose or just sit back and enjoy the ride, complete with sunset views.

Go sailing in Hilton Head Island with this private dolphin-watching tour. Motor out to Port Royal Sound and then put up the sails for a true sailing adventure. Keep an eye out for a variety of wildlife including birds, dolphins, manatees, and sting rays during this boat tour. Maximize time with a private tour and learn about sailing from your guide.

What sets the Sunday Brunch Cruise apart is the unique opportunity to enjoy a relaxing meal while cruising through the scenic waterways of Hilton Head Island. With stunning views, the chance to spot dolphins, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Lowcountry. Reserved seating, both indoor and shaded outdoor, ensures comfort for everyone, and $10 bottomless mimosas make it an extra special way to start your Sunday.

Learn all about more than 300 years of history on this guided carriage tour of Charleston. See the many mansions, churches, and gardens as your horse-drawn carriage tour covers more than 2.5 miles and 30 blocks of historic Charleston. Belgian and Percheron draft horses lead you through the streets while you learn about this “Holy City” and its role in the Civil War—leave your guidebook at home, these stories are better.

Glide through the tranquil waters of Hilton Head's Broad Creek Estuary on a captivating kayak tour that brings you face-to-face with playful dolphins and other fascinating wildlife. For 25 years, our expert guides have led adventurers of all ages through this serene environment, sharing entertaining stories and insights about the local ecosystem. As you paddle alongside these intelligent creatures, keep an eye out for manatees, otters, and a variety of beautiful bird species, making every paddle unique. The area we paddle through is the favorite feeding grounds for dolphins in Hilton Head which makes it more likely that you'll be paddling with dolphins than any other kayaking area in Hilton Head. This is the place to be and no other kayak company on the island has direct access to this favorite spot for the dolphins to feed and play! This family-friendly experience promises not only fun but also unforgettable memories in the heart of nature.

Explore the waters around Hilton Head, South Carolina aboard your own vessel during this morning excursion. Meet your dedicated captain and sail to Port Royal Sound to begin your tour. Take in the views of Hilton Head, Pickney Island, Paris Island, and many other landmarks while you keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins that play in the wake of the boat.

Hunt for treasure in Charleston with a pirate adventure cruise for kids aboard a wooden ship. Climb aboard the boat for a small-group tour complete with costumes and pirate gear for all kids. Cruise out on the Ashley River to Wappoo Creek and enjoy a variety of music, games, treasure maps, and more. Adults can kick back and relax during the cruise which includes scenic views and potential dolphin sightings.

Travel back in time to discover one of America’s most historic cities—Charleston, South Carolina—on this guided walking tour. Visit points of interest including Charleston City Hall; the Dock Street Theatre, America’s first theatre; the Old Exchange Building, South Carolina's most historic building; White Point Garden, in the heart of Charleston’s historic district with a spectacular view of Fort Sumter, and many more.

If you are wanting to explore one of the best places to find shark teeth and fossils than this is the trip for you. You will have four hours on one of Charleston's dredge islands that are replenished with shark teeth and fossils on every tide. This trip is perfect for all family members who enjoy the outdoors. For more pictures and trip facts look on my Facebook page Southern Anchor Charters.

Looking for an intimate sunset sailing experience without booking an entire private charter? Your 2-Hour Sunset Public Sail offers the perfect balance. With a maximum of just six guests onboard, you’ll enjoy a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere that feels private and special—without the cost of a private sail. Set sail through the stunning waters of Port Royal Sound as the day winds down. Watch the sky transform with vibrant sunset colors while keeping an eye out for dolphins, coastal birds, and other local wildlife. Once the sails are raised, feel the evening breeze fill the sails as the boat gently heels—true sailing at its most serene and memorable. Your experienced captain welcomes guests to be as hands-on or as relaxed as they choose. Help trim the sails, learn the basics of sailing, or simply sit back with a drink and take in the breathtaking Lowcountry sunset. This sunset sail is perfect for couples, friends, family and anyone looking to experience Hilton Head Island from the water.

Looking for a more personal sailing experience without the cost of a private charter? Our Afternoon Public Sail is the perfect balance. With a maximum of just 6 guests onboard, you’ll enjoy an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Aboard our newest and largest sailboat. Join us for a 2-hour afternoon sail spotting dolphins, birds, and other local wildlife. Once the sails are raised, feel the power and excitement as the wind fills the sails and the boat heels—this is authentic, hands-on sailing at its best. Our experienced captain encourages guests to be as involved or relaxed as they’d like. Discover why sailing is the best way to enjoy the coast—small group, smooth sailing, and unforgettable views. - Enjoy an intimate sailing experience with only 6 guests on board - Spot dolphins and wildlife while sailing through Port Royal Sound - Participate in sailing activities or relax as you prefer - Perfect for small groups looking for a unique afternoon adventure

See the sunset, watch fireworks, and look out for dolphins swimming in the wild on this Hilton Head sailing tour. The boat comfortably holds up to 22 passengers for a not-too-crowded experience, and a guide helps you spot dolphins swimming through the waves as you go.

See the Charleston Harbor by boat with a leisurely sightseeing tour along the Cooper River to Fort Sumter National Monument. Leave the guidebook at home, because this fully-narrated tour focuses on Charleston, South Carolina's history from Civil War sites to antebellum houses and landmarks, passes under Cooper River bridges, and explores a waterfront that’s home to bottlenose dolphins and pelicans.

Embark on a horse-drawn carriage tour through the heart of historic Charleston, one of the most charming cities in the US. Ride along cobblestone streets and take in the antebellum architecture, historic landmarks, and lush gardens. Your knowledgeable guide shares fascinating stories about Charleston’s rich history and Southern culture. This is a charming introduction to this part of Charleston.

Enjoy an intimate sunset sailing experience aboard a cozy vessel with only six guests. Glide through the picturesque waters of Port Royal Sound as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with brilliant colors. Keep an eye out for dolphins and coastal birds while feeling the gentle evening breeze fill the sails. Whether you prefer to take the helm and learn the basics of sailing or simply unwind with a drink, this serene sail is perfect for friends and couples alike, offering a unique way to experience Hilton Head Island's beauty. - 2-hour sunset sail with a maximum of six guests - Watch the sunset over Port Royal Sound - Spot dolphins and coastal wildlife - Hands-on sailing or relax on deck - Ideal for all skill levels and special occasions